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DHSS Press Release

Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Secretary
Jill Fredel, Director of Communications
302-255-9047, Pager 302-357-7498
Email: jill.fredel@delaware.gov

Date: August 18, 2017
DHSS-08-2017

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS DAY ON SEPT. 9 AT DELAWARE HOSPITAL FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL IN SMYRNA

NEW CASTLE (Aug. 18, 2017) - The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill (DHCI) is seeking community volunteers to support its annual Family & Friends Day on Saturday, Sept. 9, at the facility's grounds in Smyrna.

Groups and organizations are encouraged to volunteer at the annual event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at DHCI, 100 Sunnyside Road, Smyrna. Volunteers will escort residents to lunch, assist them with outdoor activities and visit special treat stations. The theme of this year's Family & Friends Day, which will take place rain or shine, is "Down on the Farm."

"To ensure that all of our residents are able to enjoy the event fully, we ask for volunteers from the community to join us," Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker said. "Family & Friends Day is a great way to spend time with the residents of Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill and to share in their lives."

This year's event will include lunch, snow cones, popcorn, cotton candy, DJ entertainment, dancing, train barrel rides, 3 Palms petting zoo and face painting. A substitute lunch can be provided by DHCI or volunteers can bring a picnic lunch to share with a resident. When volunteers sign up, they will be informed of any diet restrictions for the residents.

In addition, the Women's Auxiliary Gift Shop will be open during the event, with all proceeds benefiting the residents.

Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill is a long-term care facility operated by DHSS, with a census of about 135 residents. Admission requires both a financial and medical need.

If you or your group is interested in adopting a resident for Family & Friends Day, contact Jennifer Bobel, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at Jennifer.Bobel@delaware.gov or call 302-223-1011 no later than Aug. 24. Be sure to include a phone number or email so she can contact you with further details.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS DAY ON SEPT. 9 AT DELAWARE HOSPITAL FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL IN SMYRNA

Delaware's Government